Resident urges caution and possible moratorium on data‑center development during commissioners’ public comment

During the public‑comment period, Martin Heath urged commissioners to require more transparency and suggested a moratorium on data‑center development while environmental and infrastructure impacts are investigated. Heath cited pipeline routing documents and concerns about fast‑tracking by state entities and said citizens deserve clearer evidence before approvals proceed.

A commissioner said a local study group has drafted language for the area planning commission and that the county is mindful of state actions on large data‑center proposals. Commissioners said the draft will be reviewed by the county attorney and planning commission before it is returned for further consideration by the board.

No formal action or moratorium was adopted at the May 11 meeting; staff said any proposal from the planning commission would return to the commissioners for consideration.